Rangoli is a traditional Indian art form in which designs are produced on the floor with various materials such as powdered limestone, red ochre, dried rice flour, coloured sand, quartz powder, flower petals, and coloured pebbles and many more.
Rangolis are most commonly made during the Hindu festivals of Diwali, Tihar, Onam, Pongal, Sankranthi. It is called by different names in various parts of the country, such as in South India it is called as 'Kolam' and in Kolkata, it is called 'Alpana'.
The significance of Rangoli is based on welcoming the Goddess Laxmi, known as the goddess of wealth and good luck. Rangoli is generally made at the entrance of the house signifying the welcoming of Goddess Laxmi into the house.
Traditionally the posture while making a rangoli helped women to strengthen their spines.
The making of rangoli in Indian tradition has significance beyond just decoration and celebration. The limestone powder is capable of preventing insects from entering the household whereas the cereal powder attracts, it is considered as feeding the nature, i.e, insects. The designs may vary from place to place depicting folklore and traditional origins of ancient history.
Festivals, auspicious observances, marriage celebrations, and other comparable events and gatherings are highlighted by the use of brilliant colours and decorations in a rangoli.
Rangoli patterns might be basic geometric forms, deities, or flower and petal shapes that are fitting for the occasion. They can also be created with intricate patterns created by a group of individuals. The shapes or the geometric designs may also represent powerful goddess-like figures or sometimes it's just all about the creativity of the particular individual.
Traditionally basic designs with limestone were made in the cooking area to distract insects and other germs from the cooked food. In today's time, people have westernised the traditional Rangoli with the introduction of powdered colours or colourful chalks. Originally it was just natural items.
Imagination and new concepts in rangoli art have been integrated over time. Rangoli has been developed commercially in locations like five-star hotels. Its traditional allure, craftsmanship, and significance are still present today.